Berkeley Heights Considers New Stormwater Ordinance Amid Debate Over Development Thresholds

Overview: The Berkeley Heights Environmental Commission, during its recent meeting held via Zoom, engaged in a discussion about a proposed stormwater ordinance that could impact local development projects. The ordinance aims to address stormwater management, focusing heavily on runoff control, groundwater recharge, and pollution reduction. However, the meeting revealed ongoing debates regarding the thresholds for exempt and minor developments, as well as concerns about the clarity and practicality of the ordinance’s language.

Berkeley Heights Environmental Commission Advocates for Sustainable Practices in Takeout and Stormwater Management

Overview: The latest meeting of the Berkeley Heights Environmental Commission focused on advancing sustainability initiatives, including encouraging local restaurants to adopt an opt-in model for utensils and condiments in takeout orders, and proposing effective stormwater management solutions for a local property. Discussion also covered community engagement in environmental projects, such as a tree giveaway and the adopt-a-drain program.

Berkeley Heights Environmental Commission Tackles Stormwater Ordinance and Community Engagement Initiatives

Overview: The Berkeley Heights Environmental Commission’s recent meeting centered around refining the township’s stormwater ordinance, organizing local environmental events, and discussing budget allocations for upcoming initiatives. The commission deliberated on making the stormwater management process more accessible for homeowners, while also planning community engagement activities like the Clean Water Challenge and a cork recycling program.

Berkeley Heights Environmental Commission’s “No More Scary Drain” Contest Gains National Attention

Overview: The Berkeley Heights Environmental Commission meeting on January 6, conducted via Zoom, highlighted several key environmental initiatives. The standout discussion focused on the “No More Scary Drain” contest’s success, which promotes the “Adopt a Drain” program. This competition, a collaboration with Chatham, has not only increased local drain adoption and cleanups but also gained national recognition as a model for similar efforts across the United States. Other topics included discussions on remote meeting legality, budget requests for environmental projects, and ongoing community engagement efforts.

Berkeley Heights Environmental Commission Considers Co-Sponsorship of Wellness Walk and Artificial Turf Concerns

Overview: The Berkeley Heights Environmental Commission, in its last meeting of the year, discussed potential co-sponsorship of a wellness walk with the mayor and addressed concerns surrounding a proposal for artificial turf fields at Columbia, among other topics.